Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that Gujarat has the potential to emerge as a major Gujarat Defence Manufacturing Hub, playing a crucial role in India’s journey towards self-reliance in the defence sector. He made the remarks while addressing the valedictory session of the 4th Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in central Gujarat.
The Defence Minister emphasized that the vision of a Gujarat Defence Manufacturing Hub aligns with India’s long-term goal of becoming a globally competitive and technologically advanced defence producer.
Gujarat’s Growing Role in Defence Sector
Rajnath Singh highlighted that Gujarat is already witnessing rapid development in defence manufacturing, including key projects such as private-sector aircraft production and advanced artillery systems.
The concept of a Gujarat Defence Manufacturing Hub is being strengthened by existing industrial infrastructure in Vadodara, Sanand, and Dholera, which are emerging as strategic centres for aerospace and defence production.
यह गुजरात का ही सामर्थ्य है, कि वड़ोदरा आज भारत की पहली private sector military aircraft manufacturing facility का घर बन चुका है। Tata-Airbus C-295 project, भारत की aerospace journey का एक historic milestone है: रक्षा मंत्री श्री @rajnathsingh
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) June 30, 2026
India’s Defence Production and Export Growth
According to the minister, India’s defence production has increased significantly from around ₹46,000 crore in 2014 to nearly ₹1.78 lakh crore at present. Defence exports have also grown from ₹1,000 crore to approximately ₹39,000 crore.
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He stated that the development of a Gujarat Defence Manufacturing Hub will further accelerate this growth and reduce dependence on imports.
Technology and Innovation Driving Growth
Rajnath Singh said future warfare will depend heavily on technologies like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. He noted that Gujarat’s semiconductor ecosystem will play a key role in strengthening India’s technological sovereignty.
The push toward a Gujarat Defence Manufacturing Hub is also supported by initiatives such as Make in India, iDEX, and Defence Acquisition reforms.
MoUs Worth ₹2,550 Crore Signed
During the event, memoranda of understanding worth ₹2,550 crore were signed in the defence sector, further boosting investment prospects in Gujarat.
The development reinforces the vision of turning Gujarat into a Gujarat Defence Manufacturing Hub, attracting MSMEs, startups, and global investors.
Call for Startup Participation
The Defence Minister encouraged startups and industry players to actively participate in defence manufacturing. He assured that entrepreneurs can directly approach the ministry with their concerns and ideas without waiting for formal platforms.
This open engagement model is expected to further strengthen the Gujarat Defence Manufacturing Hub ecosystem.
With strong industrial capacity, policy support, and rising investments, Gujarat is steadily moving towards becoming a major Gujarat Defence Manufacturing Hub. Rajnath Singh’s remarks highlight the state’s strategic importance in India’s mission for defence self-reliance and technological advancement.